A recent study published on August 6, 2025, analyzed the diets of over 205,000 participants over more than 30 years, tracking their food consumption and new health diagnoses.

The research revealed that individuals consuming three servings of french fries per week faced a 20% increased risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, compared to just a 1% increase for those who ate the same amount of boiled, mashed, or baked potatoes.

Experts noted that the quick conversion of potato starch into glucose can lead to insulin spikes, which contribute to the risk of diabetes.

The study's lead author, Seyed Mohammad Mousavi, emphasized that food preparation methods significantly impact health outcomes, highlighting that fried foods can lead to insulin resistance and obesity.

In a controversial suggestion, Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. proposed reverting to beef tallow for frying, although this recommendation lacks scientific backing.

Nutritionists advocate for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to promote better overall health and reduce diabetes risk.

Researchers are calling for more nuanced dietary guidelines that take food preparation methods into account, as not all carbohydrates or potatoes have the same health implications.

While sweet potato fries may have a lower glycemic index, they can still pose a risk if consumed in large quantities, indicating a need for further research on their health impact.

Type 2 diabetes currently affects approximately 1 in 10 Americans and can lead to serious health complications, including heart attacks and kidney damage.

The study warns against substituting potatoes with white rice, as this switch has been associated with an increased risk of Type 2 diabetes.

Although the findings indicate a correlation between french fry consumption and diabetes risk, the researchers caution that the study is observational and does not establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship.

The study defined a serving of french fries as about 4 to 6 ounces, roughly equivalent to a medium to large serving of McDonald's fries, and noted that portion sizes in the U.S. often exceed recommended amounts.